Welcome to Eaton Wines
Our Winemaking Philosophy is very simple.
Our winemaking is about respecting the fruit, allowing wild yeasts to
ferment the wines with no other additions.
When it comes to the wines, it is a team effort.
All of the handwork done on our sites is done by the family. Harvest is a joint operation with
growers and their children as we try to capture the special ambiance of each site.
Eaton Wines was established in 2014 after the families' departure from the TerraVin brand which they had established in 1999.
Mike's involvement in the New Zealand wine industry goes right back to 1981 when Marlborough was just beginning its surge onto the international wines scene. Along with his wife Jo, Mike established some of New Zealand’s most renowned Pinot Noir vineyards (Clayvin, Clay Hills, Outpost, Calrossie) and the TerraVin wine brand.
Consulting over 1500ha Mike manages the nutrition and disease programs for premium growers throughout Marlborough and Nelson. From among these growers, Mike selects small parcels from exceptional sites and makes wines in small batches to best reflect their unique characteristics.
These selected areas are hand-tended by Mike and his two sons Harrison and Blake.
“The Eaton Family Wines are the epitome of the expression ‘hand-made’ and every single decision is thought through with forensic attention to detail.”
- Mathew Jukes
“The winemaking is quirky and the resulting style left of center, so these bottlings would suit those who love unconventional wines.”
- Rebecca Gibb, Vinous Media
Aromas of stone-fruit and cashew and warm bread show off the benefits of extended aging on fine lees.
The palate then adds to the harmony with its seamless, full-bodied richness which is supported by finely focused acidity. All reflecting the tight mineral-rich soils of the upper Omaka Valley.
This wine speaks of place with ease and eloquence.
Forte – an opportunity to express my many experiences within New Zealand and France in particular Sancerre and Pouilly. The use of Cigar barrels extended skin contact and Lees stirring means the wine is very expressive and indeed, not subtle in any way.
A distinctive wine that is not intended to be subtle. It is expressive and reflects influences of wild fermentation, lees stirring and extra skin contact. A wine of personality.
Thistle Hill – with its unique geological history this wine is made with one focus – reflects the special nature of the mineral-rich soils that were once ancient sea bed. My aim is to allow this site to express its origins.
A distinctive reflection of a special vineyard site. Once seabed now lifted from the seafloor to be gentle North-facing hillside. Dried herbs and spices on the nose and fine, mineral, and taut on the palate.
Awatere – A blend of sites that more expresses layers of complexity is approachable while young but still offers a completely unique take on Marlborough’s ubiquitous Sauvignon Blanc. In the words of Bob Campbell “ Its Sauvignon Blanc Jim, but not as we know it”.
Complex aromas of pear, peach and subtle spices from fermentation in oak. Broad and yet mouth-watering finish.
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